Alford’s assets to be transformed with £8m funding
Alford Manor House and Alford Windmill are set to be transformed after East Lindsey District Council secured £8m of Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government funding to regenerate the facilities and ensure they have a financially stable future.
The ambitious projects seek to preserve and enhance the heritage of each site, bring new culture opportunities to people in Alford as well as supporting the local economy and wider Lincolnshire Wolds and coastal visitor economy.
Separate planning applications have now been submitted for Alford Manor House and Alford Windmill, both of which aim to create additional uses and attract more visitors to the Lincolnshire Wolds all year round.
The planning applications have been validated and will now be assessed by planning officers following a period of public consultation with the local community and stakeholders. A decision is expected in Autumn 2024 for both sites.
The £2.05 million project at Alford Manor House proposes a new permanent, flexible event space to replace the temporary marquee which has been in place since 2006. The event space will provide the ability for the Manor House to provide function space for at least 100 people at all times of the year for such occasions as funeral teas, concerts, weddings and craft market stalls. The event space will allow good access to the Manor House and the surrounding gardens.
The £1.1m scheme for Alford Windmill suggests a new visitor centre and holiday accommodation created on the site. It will include a bakery, café, and shop in one of the preexisting outbuildings to help support ongoing costs, maintenance, repairs, and conservation for the future of the windmill. The café will sell local produce as well as bakery produce using flour milled on site once the windmill is restored.
Plans also include expanding the car park which could offer the potential for coach trips. The proposed café will seat around 44 covers with the option to serve even more people outside.
In 2023 East Lindsey District Council secured £8 million to support the regeneration schemes for these sites as well as Spilsby Sessions House.
Cllr Graham Marsh, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, Leisure and Culture and Carbon Reduction at East Lindsey District Council said: “Both applications are vitally important to the community of Alford as well as the wider district and so I am delighted that government funding will give a new lease of life and offer for visitors to come to the town and enjoy these facilities.
“Both plans have been put together in a way that respects the heritage of the sites as well as being ambitious to ensure they both have a financial stable future and are attractive to residents, visitors and holidaymakers who may want to visit.”
John Smith, Alford Windmill Trustee, said: “We are pleased to see that the project to reopen and develop the site for Alford Windmill has taken another big step forward, following the submission of the planning application.
“When the site has been completed, we can’t wait to open the redeveloped spaces for people to explore and enjoy, with the education centre for people to learn more about where their food comes from, a fantastic new holiday home for people to visit and a new bakery where visitors can sample quality local products.
Alongside the improvements being made at Alford Manor House, we can help to improve the heritage and tourism offer in Alford.”
Ongo unveils ambition to build hundreds of new homes
Social housing provider Ongo is continuing its development plans in West Lindsey with the ambition of building hundreds of new homes.
Martin Phillips, Development Manager at Ongo said: “These developments exemplify our commitment to creating vibrant, sustainable communities that cater to diverse housing need.
“We have huge development plans over the coming years, with lots of these in newer areas for us, like West Lindsey. These are not only for affordable rent, which is in huge demand, but to help people get on the property ladder too.
“We look forward to continuing our collaboration with West Lindsey District Council, who have been a pleasure to work alongside, and of course our fantastic customers and partners who are helping to shape a brighter future the region.”
Sarah Elvin, Homes & Health Team Manager at West Lindsey District Council said: “We are really excited to have Ongo as a partner delivering much needed affordable housing for families across the District. This is something that is identified as a priority in our Corporate Plan.
“The need for affordable housing has never been greater in the difficult financial times we are in and Ongo’s ambitious plans in West Lindsey are assisting us to meet the identified housing needs of our residents.
“Ongo are a fantastic partner having worked alongside them at every stage of development process through to allocation and we are looking forward to the delivery of this next phase of developments for the people of West Lindsey.”
More than 40 homes were complete between April 2023 to March 2024, 90% of which were delivered for rent, and they’re showing no signs of slowing down with 176 to be built.
Those handed over include 11 homes at Thonock Vale, 10 at Marton Meadows and 13 at Foxby Lane, all in Gainsborough.
A further 12, including four for shared ownership were completed at Rose Gardens in Lea. These were constructed using modern timber frame methods, with energy-efficient features such as air source heat pumps and solar panels.
In the pipeline are properties at Thonock Vale and Heapham Road in Gainsborough, Morton Road in Nettleton, North Moor Road at Scotter, Ruby Road at Keelby, and at Greetwell.
Grantham park commemorates 100th anniversary
Wyndham Park has hosted a special ceremony to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its naming and opening.
The council-owned park in Grantham memorialises Captain Reginald Wyndham, killed in action at Ypres in Belgium in 1914.
His mother the Dowager Lady Leconfield bequeathed £1,000 to mark her son’s Grantham connections, with a significant military gathering in the park for the opening.
Members of the Wyndham family joined senior representatives of The Life Guards, Capt Wyndham’s regiment, including its Colonel Lt Gen Sir Edward Smyth-Osbourne KCVO CBE and Gold Stick.
Lincolnshire’s Lord Lieutenant Toby Dennis also attended, along with Royal British Legion representatives and elected councillors from South Kesteven District Council and Grantham Town Council.
Combined Cadet Force representatives from the Kings School marched through the park.
Cllr Richard Dixon Warren, SKDC Armed Forces Champion, said: “It was an absolute privilege to attend the service and to witness how important this park is to the Wyndham family and their ancestor’s Regiment, The Life Guards.”
The ceremony replicated parts of the original 1924 service and was officiated by Padre Ivan Linton from Prince William of Gloucester barracks.
It included an address by Lord Egremont, head of the Wyndham family, tracing Reggie Wyndham’s life and local links, voluntary service in WW1 and determination to lead his men at Ypres, plus a reading by Lt Col Duncan Lowe, Head of Establishment at PWOG.
Lt Col Ray Ogg BEM, King’s School cadet Contingent Commander, was later presented by Toby Dennis with the 6th Bar to his Cadet Force Medal issued in 1985.
The ceremony was organised by the Wyndham Park Forum.
Image credit: Google maps
Ukrainian refugees in North East Lincolnshire to take part in immersive art project
Ukrainian refugees living in North East Lincolnshire are to take part in an immersive project fronted by Arts & Heritage organisation Our Big Picture in partnership with North East Lincolnshire Council.
“The Living Room” will see families and adults take part in reproducing a traditional Ukrainian living room in Grimsby. The installation will include tablecloths using authentic patterns and materials as well as handmade ‘Motanka’ dolls.
These dolls were first produced around 5,000 years ago and are thought to be a family talisman, representing goodwill and hope amongst other things.
Helping the refugees along the way will be artists Lucy Brooke and Lauren Saunders. Speaking about the collaboration, Jo Shaw, Arts & Heritage Programme Manager at Our Big Picture said she was excited to see what the group creates.
“In previous workshops with the refugees, we learnt how important art and culture was to them and for Ukraine as a country. With that in mind, we wanted to recreate that here and get as many people involved as possible.
“We want to be able to celebrate the Ukrainian community that is here in North East Lincolnshire. In addition, we hope it will help others explore how different countries live through the items we produce.”
Jo explained that Ukrainians often have certain patterns or materials in their living room which they will be looking to bring into the piece. On top of the physical installation, they hope to have contributors detailing other traditional items that you may see in a typical Ukrainian living room.
She added: “So far, the groups seem to be really enjoying the project. They’re excited to showcase their way of life to others and educate people on their culture.”
The project will culminate in an exhibition over the Summer where the public will be able to explore the finished living room and learn about the different items that are in it.
Sessions run biweekly on a Thursday for adults from 10am to 12pm and on Saturday for families, held from 2.30pm to 4pm at Our Big Picture on Bethlehem Street, Grimsby.
The exhibition will run from Tuesday, 13 August, to Friday, 17 August, with an event being held on the 17th to showcase the participants’ work.
Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council
Lincoln receives gift from antipodean namesake
Diana Mislov, Mayor of Port Lincoln in Australia, presented a beautiful aboriginal painting to the Mayor of Lincoln, Cllr Alan Briggs, during her visit to Lincoln earlier this week.
She was in England to attend the reburial ceremony of Captain Matthew Flinders in his birthplace of Donington, Lincolnshire.
The reburial of Captain Matthew Flinders took place at the church of St. Mary and the Holy Rood in Donington after originally being buried in St. James’ Burial Ground in Camden, Australia. The ceremony was attended by many officials, including Mayor Mislov and Deputy Mayor Jack Ritchie from Port Lincoln, alongside Councillor Briggs and the Civic Party from Lincoln.
Captain Matthew Flinders, a renowned British navigator and cartographer, is celebrated for leading the first inshore circumnavigation of mainland Australia. In 1802, on his ship ‘The Investigator’, Flinders entered a harbour in South Australia and named it ‘Port Lincoln’ in honour of his Lincolnshire heritage. This historical connection led to the twinning of Lincoln and Port Lincoln in 1991.
On 14 July 2024 a special Evensong service at the Cathedral took place in honour of Captain Flinders. During their stay, Mayor Mislov and Deputy Mayor Ritchie explored Lincoln visiting several significant venues.
The highlight of the visit was at the historic Guildhall, where Mayor Mislov presented Mayor Briggs with a stunning painting by Jenna Richards. It tells the story of the Seven Sisters detailing the journey of the sisters, embracing femininity and women working together for each other, family and community. This artwork symbolises the strong and lasting relationship between Lincoln and Port Lincoln, forged through shared history.
Coin Briggs said: “It was an honour to meet such wonderful people on such an historic occasion. The beautiful gift was well received and a reminder of our twinning relationship with Port Lincoln.
“It will be displayed in City Hall for all to see. I look forward to continuing a long and happy relationship with the good people of Port Lincoln!”
Draft designs approved to change the face of Cleethorpes
Draft designs that will change the appearance of Cleethorpes Market Place and Pier Gardens with the help of an £18.4m government grant have been agreed, and detailed designing can now begin.
The centre of the Market Place is to be pedestrianised for parts of the day, allowing for cafes and public events. This will swallow up most of the parking spaces, though lay-bys and drop off zones will still feature in the plans within Market Place to make sure businesses have access for deliveries.
Additionally, changes are being progressed to convert High Street Car Park into a short stay only car park. The unused land behind the Old Vic pub, is also proposed to be converted into a public car park of around 40 spaces.
Council leader Cllr Philip Jackson said: “We are having discussions with businesses. We know that there are concerns, but we’ve also seen in other areas across the country what these sort of projects do to help local economies, and what the possibilities are.
The Pier Garden design harks back to the historic use of space, where people went to spend time. The new vision brings people of all ages and abilities together, and creates a more family orientated area, alongside areas for quiet reflection and education, whilst also increasing biodiversity in the resort.
The design proposes a “zoning” system to provide this mix of uses, which will provide a mixture of uses across the park with a consistent theme throughout.
- – arrival space at Sea Road/Alexandra Road junction, creating a welcoming space to the gardens;
- – events zone to support a mixture of activities/events that could take place;
- – play/recreation zone which would consist of a larger central space and provide a mixture of activities for young and older children alike;
- – reflection zone at the Sea View Street end of the gardens supporting the existing armed forces memorials that are situated there.
Council believes its solar farm objections haven’t been given due regard
West Lindsey District Council believes planners have failed to give sufficient consideration to its objections to the Gate Burton Energy Park just south of Gainsborough.
The development near the communities of Gate Burton, Knaith Park and Willingham-By-Stow covers about 834 hectares comprising of ground mounted solar panels, battery energy storage, substation and associated infrastructure works.
Specific concerns were raised in relation to the loss of agricultural land and impact on national food security, landscape and visual impact, impact on the local communities and concerns regarding highways implications.
Cllr Emma Bailey, Vice Chair of the council’s Prosperous Communities Committee, said: “The news that the Gate Burton Energy Park has been approved is deeply disappointing. It is clear from the decision report that the impact of this development on our local communities, together with the loss of prime agricultural land has been put to one side and not given due regard.”
Four further solar development proposals for land across West Lindsey are at varying stage of the nationally significant infrastructure project (NSIP) consenting process.
Cllr Bailey added: “With more proposals in the pipeline the council will be lobbying for the thorough and transparent consideration of the cumulative impacts of the developments, which across our district are significant and disproportionate. The Council do not accept that the benefit of solar development outweighs what are considerable social, economic and environmental impacts for cumulative developments at this scale.
“As a host authority in the consenting process, West Lindsey District Council provided formal relevant representations and a local impact report, highlighting the impact of the development on our communities.”
Mablethorpe’s £13.5m leisure centre opens to public
A £13.5 million leisure centre with swimming pool and state-of-the-art fitness facilities will open its doors to the public tomorrow.
Station Leisure & Learning Centre in Mablethorpe has been delivered by East Lindsey District Council to bring transformational health and wellbeing opportunities to local residents. The new leisure venue will be operated by Magna Vitae Trust for Leisure & Culture.
The Council secured Government funding through the Town Deal, supported by the Connected Coast Board which oversees the delivery of the Towns Fund in Mablethorpe and Skegness. Construction started in March last year and has been completed on schedule by contractors, ISG.
The facility is the first Town Deal scheme to be completed and delivered by the Council with the Colonnade at Sutton on Sea and the Campus for Future Living in Mablethorpe also progressing.
The Leisure and Learning Centre includes:
- A four-lane, 25m long and 1.2m deep swimming pool
- State-of-the-art fitness equipment
- An exercise class programme including instructor-led and virtual classes.
- The Signal Box: The community space bringing learning to the local East Lindsey area
- Study Hubs: Providing social workspace for everyone
- Whistle Stop Bistro:
- Activity Game and Obstacle Arena, MagnaTAG
- A new outdoor play area for the community
South Lincolnshire Councils Partnership appoints Director of Economic Development
The South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership has appointed Pranali Parikh as its Director of Economic Development.
Her directorate responsibilities will be to deliver planning, economy and cultural development, and she will be instrumental in driving forward the growth ambitions and priorities for the Partnership.
In her previous role, Pranali was Director for Growth and Regeneration at Melton Borough Council for six years where she was pivotal in the council’s successful Levelling Up funding bid, enhancing regeneration and boosting the town’s reputation as the ‘rural capital of food.’
Partnership working has been a consistent theme for Pranali, having also worked as Regeneration Service Manager for Alliance of High Peak Borough Council and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.
Her first role in local Government was Principal Regeneration Manager for Derby City Council and before that she was Urban Design Manager at Derby Cityscape Ltd and Urban Designer at Atkins Ltd.
Pranali said: “I am very much looking forward to getting really engrained into the sub-region, working with the Councils’ leaders, portfolio holders and stakeholders on their priorities as well as understanding local challenges and seeking solutions.
“I am really looking forward to bringing my expertise and insights to the delivery of projects and schemes which support growth and the local economy in south and east Lincolnshire.”
Rob Barlow, Chief Executive, said: “I am really pleased that Pranali has joined our Senior Leadership Team at what is an exciting time for the Partnership. By working collaboratively, the Partnership has been really successful in bringing in Government funding to support economic growth for the entire sub-region.
“This is a new role and was highly competitive so I am delighted the recruitment process has resulted in Pranali joining the team to help drive forward the ambitions of the Partnership.”
Fundraiser tells of early years in Air Ambulance By Your Side podcast series
Following a successful launch last month, Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) continues to take you behind the scenes of its life-saving work as host Melvyn Prior discovers how the iconic yellow helicopter was unable to fly just months after the life-saving service began.
Tune in to the conversation with Thirza Dixon, LNAA’s first fundraiser, and the charity’s existing CEO, Karen Jobling, who chat about how far the life-saving charity has come in 30 years.
Thirza avidly explains about the early days when if there were insufficient funds the helicopter stood silent. She said: “It was awful, it was horrible, because people had seen the benefit, and then you take it away from them.”
Hear about the team’s unwavering belief that they would not fail, and that Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance would succeed. Thirty years later, the charity continues to go from strength to strength, with its team of doctors, paramedics and pilots responding to almost 30,000 missions since their first callout on 13 May 1994.
Karen also pays tribute to all the supporters and volunteers that have worked tirelessly each year to raise the funds needed to keep the air ambulance in the skies and fleet of critical care cars on the roads delivering emergency care to communities in Lincs & Notts 24/7, seven-days-a-week.
She said: “We’ve got everything to thank to the people who have come before us, for everyone who has worked hard to sell the dream.”
By Your Side podcast is available on: https://www.ambucopter.org.uk/podcast
Solar farm decisions ‘deeply disappointing’ for Lincolnshire
Two senior county councillors have reacted to the news that the new Secretary of State has granted permission for two giant solar farms in Lincolnshire.
Permission for Gate Burton in West Lindsey and Mallard’s Pass in South Kesteven have been given permission to go ahead, despite considerable local opposition.
Councillor Colin Davie, the county council’s executive councillor for economy and environment, said: “The news that proposals for giant industrial solar parks for both Mallard’s Pass and Gate Burton have been approved is deeply disappointing for all those who will have to live with these huge developments on their doorstep.
“I have repeatedly said that these enormous infrastructure projects should not be dumped in our county, and ruin the quality of life of our residents. Our agricultural land should be protected and it plays a key role in our nation’s food security. But these pleas are not being heard by the Labour government now in charge of environmental policy.”
Leader of Lincolnshire County Council, Cllr Martin Hill, added: “Be in no doubt that these are huge-scale developments that will change our county landscapes dramatically. Both proposals are expected to cover around 2000 acres each. The speed with which these decisions have been taken shows that this government is not prepared to listen to communities, local councils and all those fighting for our countryside. The sheer volume of paperwork associated with these proposals means that in no way could these be seen as carefully considered decisions.”
Heather Small – a veteran in the live music scene
Heather Small is a veteran in the live music and touring scene and year on year, Heather’s demand has seen her play shows not just in the UK but internationally.
Heather became one of the seminal British voices of the 1990s, as part of M People, with hits such as ‘Moving On Up’, ‘One Night In Heaven’ and ‘Search For The Hero’ along with albums like Elegant Slumming, Bizarre Fruit, and Fresco, achieving massive worldwide success.
Join us on Friday 27th September at Cambridge Corn Exchange to see her for yourself! Book today on https://www.cambridgelive.org.uk/cornex/events/heather-small
Coming soon to the Plowright Theatre: The Makings of a Murderer 2 – The Real Manhunter
Following sell-out shows nationwide, the UK’s top true crime theatre tour is back with a brand-new lineup!
Featuring Senior Investigating officer Colin Sutton, who caught serial killer Levi Bellfield and ‘Night Stalker’ Delroy Grant.
Join a chilling, thrilling night at the theatre as Colin, who was head of a Metropolitan Police murder squad tells the stories of how he caught some of the UK’s most evil murderers.
In this all-new show, Colin, who the ITV drama series ‘Manhunt,’ played by Martin Clunes, is based on, will talk you through his remarkable career and what it is like to chase and catch a serial killer in a unique and one-off night at the theatre – for true crime fans and theatre goers alike.
The Makings of a Murderer 2 – A Crime Thriller night at the Theatre!
Touring Nationwide from Autumn 2024, the show comes to The Plowright Theatre, in Scunthorpe, on Sunday 8 September 2024.
Grange Farm Park celebrates new wedding licence, Tipi venue and wellness spa
Grange Farm Park has announced a series of exciting developments that make it the ultimate destination for weddings and relaxation in Lincolnshire. Now officially licensed for weddings, the park proudly introduces a stunning new Tipi venue and the addition of a luxurious wellness spa.
New wedding licence and Tipi venue
Couples can now officially exchange vows at Grange Farm Park, surrounded by the natural beauty and serene ambiance that the park offers. The newly unveiled Tipi venue, an elegant and spacious structure, can accommodate sit-down receptions for up to 110 guests. This unique space perfectly aligns with Grange Farm Park’s dedication to creating bespoke festival-style weddings, allowing couples to celebrate their love in a personalized and memorable way.
Bespoke festival-style weddings
Specializing in bespoke festival-style weddings, Grange Farm Park empowers couples to design their dream day. Whether aiming for a rustic, bohemian, or modern theme, each wedding is tailored to reflect the couple’s distinct style and vision. The versatile Tipi offers a charming and flexible setting, ensuring every wedding is as unique as the couple themselves.
On-site accommodation
Grange Farm Park offers a variety of on-site accommodation options, ensuring guests can enjoy the festivities without the need for travel. From glamping pods and luxury lodges to cozy cottages, every guest will find comfort and convenience, enhancing the overall experience of the celebration.
New wellness spa
Adding to the excitement, Grange Farm Park is proud to unveil its new wellness spa. This serene sanctuary offers a swim spa, sauna and ice bath together with relaxation area all designed to rejuvenate and unwind, making it the perfect addition to the park’s offerings. Whether guests are preparing for the big day or simply looking to chill out, the wellness spa provides the ideal retreat.
Book your dream wedding today
With the new wedding licence, the addition of the Tipi venue, the debut of an exquisite summer menu, and the luxurious wellness spa, Grange Farm Park is set to become the premier destination for couples seeking a unique and enchanting wedding experience.
For more information or to book a tour, please visit www.grangefarmpark.co.uk or contact its wedding coordinator at rebecca@grangefarmpark.co.uk.
New North Lincolnshire planning academy allowing people to earn as they learn
Image: Deborah Oikeh, Jack Standerline, Chris Clark, Matthew Gillyon, Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, Cllr David Rose, Millie Arden, Rachael Major and Rebecca Leggott, Development Management Lead. Image credit: North Lincolnshire Council
New waste collection lorry to raise prostate cancer awareness
South Kesteven District Council’s (SKDC) latest addition to its fleet has been unveiled to raise awareness of prostate cancer.
Prominent health adverts on each side of the eye-catching blue vehicle highlight the fact that one in eight men will suffer from prostate cancer. Latest figures suggest that 144 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every day.
The lorry carries the Prostate Cancer UK 30-second risk check message that can save lives, along with a link to the charity website for more information.
It will operate alongside a bright pink freighter launched last year to spread awareness of breast cancer.
The risk of prostate cancer made headlines this year following King Charles III’s treatment for an enlarged prostate, prompting a surge in checks for the condition.
Cllr Paul Wood, who represents the Viking ward on SKDC, discovered that he had prostate cancer through a routine PSA test – despite having no symptoms.
An MRI scan showed there was a 50% chance he had prostate cancer and a subsequent biopsy confirmed that he did.
Cllr Wood said: “I chose surgery to remove the prostate, had the operation in June 2023 and further tests confirmed that the cancer had not spread beyond the prostate.
“I was very lucky, and I would encourage every man to take the risk of prostate cancer seriously, even if they have no symptoms.”
Cllr Ashley Baxter, Leader of SKDC, said: “We are proud to be using a refuse freighter to deliver a vitally important new health message across the district. Our new freighter is eye-catching, not least for its colour but for the information which can literally save lives.”
Prostate Cancer UK Chief Executive Laura Kerby said: “We’re so grateful for the brilliant support of South Kesteven District Council raising vital risk awareness for Prostate Cancer UK.
“This brilliantly-branded truck puts us and our messaging at the heart of the local community and could be a gamechanger for those men and their loved ones affected by prostate cancer – a disease which affects 1 in 8 men in the UK.
“An early diagnosis can save your life, so it is vital that men know their risk. Men are at higher risk if they are over 50, Black or have a father or brother who has had prostate cancer. Anyone with concerns should visit the charity’s online risk checker.
“This innovative incentive will help drive home the dangers of this disease and help us save and enrich the lives of men with prostate cancer. We can’t thank everyone involved enough.”
Jaspal Phull, Urology consultant at United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust and Clinical Director for Surgery, said: “Understanding whether you may have prostate cancer starts with a discussion and in most cases a simple blood test. Some men will need specialist testing to see whether they have early prostate cancer.
“In the UK 144 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every day. Age, ethnicity and family history play a significant part in this. Learn more about your prostate and beat this treatable cancer with early risk assessment and blood test detection.”
Image credit: South Kesteven District Council
Summer of fun at Rutland Farm Park
Rutland Farm Park is preparing for a summer of fun, with numerous family events throughout August.
It begins on Saturday 3rd August with a charity fun day in memory of Les Large, a beloved member of the farm family. Taking place from 11.30 – 4.30, the event, supporting St Barnabas Hospice, will feature a bouncy castle, hook a duck, welly wanging, cake stall (donations welcome), wine or water (donations of wine welcome), and tombola, alongside food, ice cream and lots more. Business stands are also welcome with a pitch fee of £15 for the charity (to book email admin@rutlandfarmpark.co.uk).
Meanwhile, on Monday 12th August, keep an eye out for Alice in Wonderland. And on August Bank Holiday Weekend enjoy princesses and pirates and themed activities, with children in costume receiving a free bag or bucket of animal feed to enjoy a hands-on experience with friendly farm animals (book online).
SK Charity Cup football tournament gets ready for kick off
The draw has been made and fixtures confirmed for this year’s South Kesteven Charity Cup tournament.
Organised by football fan Cllr Ian Selby, the tournament was first held in 2019 as a way of bringing communities together through sport.
Now in its fourth year – the 2022 tournament did not take place due to Covid – the event has cemented its place in the South Kesteven sporting calendar.
This year it will once again be providing competitive pre-season games for local sides – and raising money for local charities at the same time. Taking part will be the defending champions Sleaford Town, along with Grantham Town, Harrowby United and Deeping Rangers.
Each club has nominated a charity to benefit from the fund-raising. They are:
- Sleaford Town – Rainbow Stars
- Grantham Town – Grantham Disabled Children’s Society
- Harrowby United – Grantham Autistic Information Network
- Deeping Rangers – Dementia Support South Lincs
Boston Borough Council adopts new Street Art Policy
A new Street Art Policy was adopted with full support by Boston Borough Council’s Cabinet at their last meeting. This policy aims to enable the development of street art in the borough, aligning with the Boston Town Centre Strategy & Action Plan 2023-2027.
Image: Boston, Lincolnshire – Credit: Stock.adobe.com/Tony
The policy provides a safe space for local artists to create and develop street art while empowering the Council to remove art that does not meet the required standards. It is based on best practices from across the country and internationally.
Cllr Sarah Sharpe, Portfolio Holder for Culture, said: “It is our intention to work with communities to ensure any proposed street art is suitable and representative of the place, creating a sense of ownership and enhancement to the space.”
She added: “The policy also enables the potential for using street art to engage with young people and provides the opportunity to work with artists, developing their creativity in dedicated spaces rather than going down the route of illegal graffiti.”
The policy will be tested with a pilot project involving the community and artists. Central Park has been identified as a potential location for this project, which is part of the effort to gain Green Flag Status.
Grimsby In Bloom to expand community facilities
Grimsby In Bloom committee members and volunteers have revealed their plans for an extra piece of land which is in the process of being granted to them on a 99-year lease at the Duke of York Gardens.
A Community Asset Transfer approved by North East Lincolnshire Council’s Cabinet means the group will be able expand into the large piece of land alongside their current Pavilion base, off Corporation Road, where they already provide a café, a garden room for community hire, a woodwork workshop and a small vegetable garden.
The group welcomed Cllr Stephen Harness, North East Lincolnshire Council Portfolio Holder for Finance, Resources and Assets, along to the site to see what they have planned.
The extra land, which is 51m x 34m, will allow the group to provide a flower and vegetable garden and a tree nursery, expanding their horticultural and environmental initiatives, and to build a small office for administration. The terms of the lease mean that they will be responsible for the maintenance of the site and will also be able to attract outside investment.
Grimsby in Bloom is a community-focused initiative dedicated to enhancing the local environment, fostering community engagement and addressing societal changes in Grimsby.
The group is keen to address community issues, such as social isolation, by providing a safe space for individuals to connect. They also offer mental health support through confidential counselling sessions, and youth engagement by providing practical workshops for children and scout/cubs groups. They provide environmental education by promoting gardening and horticultural activities to enhance the local environment.
The group held a lease on part of the land between 2015 and 2020, but this asset transfer, at a peppercorn rent, will give them the opportunity to manage this larger site well into the future.
North East Lincolnshire Council approved the transfer of the land at its Cabinet meeting in June following an extensive business case put forward by the group. The council considers proposals for Asset Transfer where certain organisations or groups can demonstrate they contribute significant social, economic or environmental benefits to the community. These benefits can be taken in lieu of monetary value demonstrated in rent.
Councillors agreed that the proposal “provides a social return on investment at a far out-weighted monetary equivalent to otherwise proposed rent.” The lease will now be progressed.
Grimsby in Bloom currently has 20-plus volunteers and a nine-strong management team. Chair Elaine Atkinson said the new lease and extra piece of land will allow the group to expand its facilities and also to incorporate a tranquility/friendship garden for older residents.
“We are thrilled that we will now have more space to do what we want to do,” she said. “This extra space will allow us to show the community that we are not just about plants.
“Gardening and horticultural activities are very much a part of what we do but we are here for wider community enhancement to provide a place where local people can come and join in or simply sit and feel comfortable, perhaps learn a new skill, and have some company if they want it.
“The extra land will mean a lot to our volunteers as at present we only have a small strip down the side to grow things, but this will allow us to have a proper vegetable and fruit garden with polytunnels, and we also plan to create a dipping pond, a nature area and a wormery,” she said.
Grimsby In Bloom also works closely with the DWP offering local people a chance to gain skills for employment.
“We had two volunteers who we put through the food hygiene qualifications and they have now gone on to new jobs,” said Elaine. “We had another lady who was just walking through the park and now volunteers for us twice a week. We are always looking for more volunteers and we really welcome people from ethnic minority groups who can teach us about growing a greater variety of fruit and vegetables,” she said.
One service user, Claire, said the group is providing a safe haven for her home-educated 13-year-old daughter to socialise and take part in activities which are helping to build her confidence.
She said: “It helps me enormously to see my daughter progressing and just to know that she has people here that she can talk to.”
Cllr Harness said: “Grimsby in Bloom has provided a comprehensive business case showing that they are community-focused and that they align with the Royal Horticultural Society’s principles to form a strong foundation as a vibrant hub, offering a range of activities, support, and events for the local community.
“Moreover, their planned expansion illustrates a commitment to enhance and broaden the initiatives, fostering a sustainable impact on the local environment and community engagement.
“We are very happy to grant them this lease, and they will now have full autonomy to concentrate on improving the sustainable provision of leisure and recreational use of the site, and to enhance the biodiversity of the area and make investment in the security of the site to deter anti-social behaviour.”
Image credit: North East Lincolnshire Council
